Teutonic Order fortress begun in 1274 and, covering about 20 hectares, the largest castle in the world by land area. Seat of the order's Grand Master from 1309 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, with three castles, a brick Gothic palace of the masters and a large museum of amber and weapons.
Malbork Castle stands at ul. Starościńska 1 in Malbork, in Poland's Pomeranian region, on the banks of the Nogat river. Begun in 1274 by the Teutonic Order, it covers about 20 hectares and is the largest castle in the world by land area. It became the seat of the order's Grand Master from 1309 and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. The complex consists of three castles: the High Castle, the Middle Castle and the Lower Castle, ringed by walls, moats and towers. The brick Gothic palace of the Grand Masters is the highlight, with its refectory, vaulted halls and the famous Summer Refectory with slender palm-like pillars. The castle also houses a large museum with collections of amber and of weapons, plus exhibitions on the order's history. The Historical Route, the main visitor route, takes visitors through chambers, courtyards and defensive works, and an audio guide is available. A visit typically takes four to five hours, and a large part of the day can be spent exploring. In summer the Historical Route typically runs from 9AM to 8PM Tuesday to Sunday, with the last entry around 4:30PM, while winter hours are shorter; on Mondays the grounds route is free in summer. Adult admission was 65 PLN in spring and summer 2026, higher in winter, and a reduced ticket cost 45 PLN, with a guide fee extra. Arriving at opening is the best way to avoid the large tour groups that arrive late morning. The most famous view is from the opposite bank of the Nogat river, where the red-brick walls reflect in the water, particularly at sunset. The castle is reached by train from Gdańsk Główny in 35 to 60 minutes, followed by a walk of about 15 minutes from Malbork station. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow for plenty of walking.
| Admission | Adult 65 PLN ($17) Historical Route in spring-summer 2026, higher in winter; guide fee extra · Child 45 PLN ($12) reduced |
|---|---|
| Hours | Summer: Historical Route typically 9AM-8PM Tue-Sun (last entry 4:30PM); winter hours shorter; Monday grounds route free in summer |
| Typical visit | 4-5 hours |
| Best time | morning, at opening |
| Getting there | Train from Gdańsk Główny in 35-60 minutes, then a 15-minute walk from Malbork station |
| Address | ul. Starościńska 1, 82-200 Malbork |
Location
ul. Starościńska 1, 82-200 Malbork
54.0400, 19.0278 View on map
Highlights
- Largest castle in the world by land area, a UNESCO site since 1997
- Brick Gothic Palace of the Grand Masters
- Museum collections of amber and weapons
- Riverside view of the walls from across the Nogat
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at opening to beat the late-morning tour groups.
- Allow four to five hours and wear comfortable shoes.
- Consider an audio guide or a guided tour, as the complex is large.
- Check the ticket price and hours for the season before going.
- Take the train from Gdańsk Główny, then walk about 15 minutes.
When to visit
Morning at opening, ideally on a weekday. Sunset is best for the view across the river.
Accessibility
The castle has cobbles, stairs and medieval passages, which limit access for wheelchair users, though some routes may be adapted. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the castle in advance.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to Malbork Castle take?
A visit typically takes four to five hours.
Is it worth it for kids?
Children who enjoy castles often like the towers, courtyards and weapon displays, though the long walk can tire younger ones.
Is photography allowed?
Photography is generally allowed in the courtyards and many interiors, but rules vary by gallery, so visitors should follow posted signs.